Six Amazing Romantic Things to do in Budapest

With its historic palaces, magnificent sights and expansive riverside views, Budapest offers romance by the bucketload. The Hungarian capital is a great mini break option for couples, with plenty of swoon-worthy moments guaranteed. Climb Fisherman’s Bastion together for incredible cityscape views and enjoy cosy, candlelit dinners in the city’s tastiest restaurants. To get you in the mood, here are some of the best romantic things to do in Budapest.

Explore Buda Castle District Follow in the footsteps of Budapest’s Kings and Queens in the Buda Castle District. Explore the quaint cobblestone streets to uncover historic landmarks such as The Royal Palace, Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion. Spend a morning checking out Budapest’s interesting museums, such as The Castle Museum, as well as its charming cafés and restaurants, which make perfect brunch spots. Enjoy breathtaking views from the Castle Hill Funicular, which runs from the famous Széchenyi Chain Bridge, or burn off your delicious brunch by climbing the Király lépcső ‘Royal Steps’.

Take in the View at Fisherman’s Bastion Originally built to honour the fishermen who protected the city, Fisherman’s Bastion is not only a striking structure, but also one of Budapest’s most impressive lookout points. After gazing at the seven medieval turrets (representing seven Hungarian tribes), climb to the top level for unbelievable panoramic vistas. For added romance, visit at sunset and watch the light fade over the city below.

Soak in Budapest’s Thermal Baths After a busy day of sightseeing, why not indulge in some pampering at one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths? Take a dip in the Acquincum Hotel’s own spa, which offers two thermal pools filled with water from Margit Island, alongside saunas and a range of stress-busting treatments. Alternatively, wallow in the hot waters of Király Bath, the oldest bathhouse in the city; the ancient Ottoman-style Veli Bej Bath; the riverside Rudas Bath; or the grand Széchenyi Bath, the largest baths in the city with an impressive 20 indoor and outdoor pools.

Enjoy a River Danube Cruise One of the most romantic things to do in Budapest is a boat trip on the River Danube, which meanders through the middle of the city. Boats sail past almost all of the capital’s historical and cultural highlights, meaning you’ll get unique views of landmarks like the towering Castle Hill, the impressive Hungarian Parliament building and the city’s striking bridges. For a journey with a difference, hop abroad the Riverride, a floating bus with a route that stops at many of the city’s main attractions.

Go for a Romantic Sunset Walk With its fairy tale castles and riverside views, taking a stroll, hand in hand, through Budapest at sunset is highly recommended. Before heading out for dinner, take a leisurely walk and soak up the scenery. Walk along the river as the sun starts to go down, or walk up Gellért Hill and pick a spot near the Liberty Statue for the best sunset views and photo opportunities.

Enjoy a Romantic Dinner If you’re looking for the best table for two in town, Budapest has plenty of options. The city offers Michelin-star restaurants alongside many more informal restaurants where visitors can sample authentic Hungarian cuisine or international flavours. Visit Tom George, a trendy Italian bistro near St Stephen’s Basilica, and share a feast of pizza, pasta and ice cream. For a truly special, blow out meal, head to Costes (the first Budapest restaurant to receive a Michelin star) or its sister restaurant Costes Downtown for innovative, modern cuisine in immaculate settings.